Sumitomo 3M has previewed an optical film capable of bringing naked-eye 3D to small- and medium-size LCD panels without requiring the viewer to wear special glasses, according to Tech-On. The technology, demonstrated at FPD International 2009, is claimed to retain spatial resolution and enables quick switching between 2D and 3D content.

The special film utilizes dome-shape lenses on the visible surface of the LCD, while prism-like structures are placed on the back side of the film. To create a 3D representation, the film requires separate edge-lit LED light sources on both the right and left sides of the display panel.

The prisms and lenses allow the light from the right light source to travel to the left eye, while light from the left light source travels to the right eye. Synchronization of the lighting creates the 3D effect, with 2D images shown when both LED sources are presenting the same picture.

Sumitomo 3M showed the technology working on a 9-inch display and a smartphone with a 2.8-inch screen. The company has already begun volume production, although details regarding specific products have yet to be announced.